How to Honor Your Father at Your Colorado Destination Wedding.
La Joya Dulce has been honored to hoast over 125 weddings in the stunning Rocky Mountains of Colorado. We value our couples and prioritize what is most important to them. For many, creating moments to honor their family members is high priority. Here are some of our favorite ways to honor dads… beyond the traditional walk down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Caitlin Steuben Photography
Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, a celebration not just of love, but the love from the people who helped you become who you are today. For many, one of the most influential figures on that journey is your dad. Whether he was (or still is) your superhero growing up, your biggest cheerleader, or your calm in every storm, your wedding is the perfect opportunity to honor and celebrate your father in a way that’s personal, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
At La Joya Dulce, our picturesque venue lies in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, provides the perfect backdrop for creating intimate and memorable moments with your father on your special day. If you're planning a destination wedding in the Colorado mountains and want to make your dad feel loved and appreciated, we've gathered some unique and creative ways for you to really make that happen.
1. A First Look with Dad: A Quiet, Emotional Moment
We often think of the first look as a moment shared between the couple, but a first look with your dad can be just as powerful. Schedule a quiet moment before the ceremony for a private reveal. When he sees you in your wedding dress for the first time, it's often an emotional and intimate experience that can be captured beautifully by your photographer. **Bring the tissues
At La Joya Dulce, we offer several secluded spots with stunning backdrops—from serene meadows to intimate decks overlooking the Elk River Valley, and don’t forget our gorgeous aspen glade—perfect for this personal moment between father and child.
💡Tip: Write a letter to read to your dad during the first look or give him a handkerchief embroidered with a special message.
Photo Credit: Two One Photography
2. Let Him Walk You Down the Aisle — with a Twist
The traditional walk down the aisle is a treasured role many fathers look forward to. However, you can add a twist to make it even more meaningful. Consider walking halfway down the aisle with your father, then having your fiancé walk the other half with you—symbolizing the support of both past and future.
Alternatively, if you want a less traditional processional, let your dad escort you on horseback to the ceremony site or come in on the sleigh or buggy—an unforgettable option we can accommodate at La Joya Dulce for those looking to embrace their inner cowboy (or cowgirl) spirit! And, don’t forget, our car, Daisy, is a wonderful grand entrance with him.
3. Write a Personalized Toast or Speech for Him
Rather than letting Dad do all the talking, consider flipping the script. After your father gives his toast (if he’s planning to), surprise him with your own speech or a few heartfelt words during the reception.
Reflect on childhood memories, thank him for his love and support, and let your guests see the bond you share. Feel free to slide in a little inside humor that will keep conversations rolling all night. This gesture adds a personal, emotional layer to your celebration and gives your dad a spotlight moment he’ll never forget.
Photo Credit: Pixel Studio Photography
4. Feature Him in a Special Reading or Ceremony Role
Give your dad a role in the ceremony beyond walking you down the aisle. Have him read a meaningful poem, blessing, or passage that reflects your relationship or values.
You could also incorporate a unity ceremony with your father, such as a tree planting (which we can help coordinate with a view of the Rockies), symbolizing the roots he helped nurture that allow your love to flourish.
5. Have a Signature Drink Named After Him
Does your dad love a specific cocktail? Maybe he’s known for making the best Old Fashioned or has a go-to IPA. Pay tribute by naming a signature cocktail after him on your bar menu—“Papa Beer” or “Father of the Bride Bourbon,” for example.
At La Joya Dulce, our reception barn offers a perfect rustic-chic bar setup where custom drinks are always a hit. We have four different bars that you can use for your day! Add a fun description to the drink sign that tells a short story or joke about your dad to bring some laughs and personality. If you need help with drink creations we can not recommend Ruby with Yampa Valley Shakers enough!
Photo Credit: Amelia Ann Photography
6. Include Him in a Fun “Dad and Me” Dance
The father-daughter (or father-child) dance is a cherished tradition. But who says it has to be slow and sappy? If your dad loves to dance (or even if he doesn’t but has a sense of humor), consider planning a fun, choreographed routine that starts traditional and then breaks into a mash-up of his favorite tunes.
It’s a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to show your bond. The dance floor at La Joya Dulce is perfect for these moments—spacious, beautiful, and filled with Colorado charm.
7. Gift Him Something Personalized and Practical
On the morning of your wedding, surprise your dad with a thoughtful gift that honors your relationship. Some unique and useful ideas include:
A watch engraved with the wedding date and a message like “Thanks for your time and love.”
Custom cufflinks with your initials or a meaningful quote.
A leather wallet or keychain with a note tucked inside.
A personalized handkerchief for happy tears.
Include a card that shares your feelings—something he can treasure forever.
Photo Credit: Caitlin Steuben Photography
8. Create a Photo Tribute or Memory Display
Weddings are a time of reflection as well as celebration. Set up a small photo display at the reception or cocktail hour that features favorite father-child memories: fishing trips, first day of school, goofy vacation pics, or prom night send-offs.
You could also create a digital slideshow with a favorite song and share it during the rehearsal dinner or reception. At La Joya Dulce, our barn and lawn spaces are versatile enough to accommodate memory tables, video projections, and even campfire storytelling moments under the stars.
9. Plan a Pre-Wedding Adventure Just for You Two
Before the wedding weekend kicks off, plan a short adventure with your dad in the Colorado Rockies. Whether it’s fly-fishing on the Yampa River, horseback riding at Saddleback Ranch, or an early morning hike with panoramic views, spending quality one-on-one time away from the hustle of wedding planning will mean the world to him.
It’s not just about the wedding—it’s about making memories that last long after the big day is over.
Photo Credit: Elevate Photography
10. Honor a Father Who’s Passed with Love and Presence
If your father has passed away, there are still heartfelt ways to honor him at your wedding. Some ideas include:
Wearing or carrying one of his belongings, like a tie or handkerchief.
Including a short tribute in your vows or having a moment of silence.
Dancing with another family member in his honor to a song he loved.
Lighting a candle or placing his photo on your memory table.
Save his seat front and center with a photo or a personal item. You know he isn’t missing this day!
La Joya Dulce’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings offer a comforting space for remembering loved ones. Many of our couples have created beautiful tributes that blend seamlessly into their celebration.
11. Let Him Lead a Group Activity
If your dad is outgoing or loves bringing people together, give him a fun role during the wedding weekend. He could:
Host the welcome dinner or rehearsal BBQ (our barn and outdoor kitchen are perfect for this).
Lead a toast or storytelling session around a bonfire.
Organize a group hike or outdoor game for your guests.
Officiate your wedding if he’s ordained or interested.
Empowering him to be part of the experience, rather than just a witness to it, highlights your connection and gives him a sense of pride and purpose.
Photo Credit: Elevate Photography
12. Include Him in Your Vows or Ceremony Language
Even if he’s not actively part of the ceremony, you can include a brief mention of your father and what he’s meant to you in your vows. It can be as simple as:
"To my father, who taught me what love looks like through steadfast actions, never ending support, and an abundance of patience—thank you for showing me the way."
This subtle yet powerful gesture won’t go unnoticed.
13. Capture a Special Portrait Session
In addition to your first look, set aside time for a short portrait session during golden hour. Our mountain backdrop at La Joya Dulce is nothing short of cinematic. Whether it’s playful piggyback shots, hugging in the pasture, or walking hand-in-hand through the barn doors, these images will be priceless keepsakes.
Photo Credit: Garner Co Photography
14. Gift Him a Custom Playlist of Your Shared Songs
Does your dad have a collection of songs he used to sing around the house? Did you dance on his feet to “My Girl” or take road trips blasting 70s hits? Create a playlist and gift it to him on a custom USB or even an old-school mixtape-style USB cassette. Include notes explaining each song’s memory.
15. End the Night with a Fire Pit & Fatherly Wisdom
As the party winds down, gather your close family and friends around the fire pit. Ask your dad to share a toast or a piece of advice for your future. These unscripted moments under the stars—paired with s’mores and starlight—are often the most meaningful of the entire weekend.
Photo Credit: Amelia Ann Photography
Final Thoughts: Celebrate the Man Who Helped Raise You
There are countless ways to honor your father on your wedding day—from grand gestures to subtle nods. At La Joya Dulce, we believe every wedding should reflect not just your love story, but the stories and people who helped shape it. Kathie’s love for her dad is reflected in the trophies of his that she keeps close by in the trophy room - ask her when you have your venue visit!
Whether your dad is stoic or sentimental, traditional or totally quirky, there’s a perfect way to include and celebrate him in your Rocky Mountain wedding.
Let us help you create a day full of love, laughter, and legacy—surrounded by soaring peaks, open pastures, and family memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to start planning your unforgettable Colorado wedding?
Contact La Joya Dulce today to schedule a tour or learn more about how we can help you make every detail—especially the meaningful ones—absolutely perfect.
about la joya dulce
At la joya dulce, we are proud in being an independently owned and operated, local wedding venue. When you choose la joya dulce in Steamboat Springs, you're not just booking a venue—you're working directly with the owners, who are dedicated to making your day perfect. You are not just a transaction to us - you become a member of our ranch family. We’re committed to creating memories and intentional moments for you and your family. We believe in supporting our community, which is why we collaborate with other independently-owned venues and businesses.
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